A nurse is reinforcing teaching with an assistive personnel (AP) about a client who has pertussis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

The correct answer is A:

Choice A reason:

Replace the unit when the drainage chamber is full. This ensures continuous, effective drainage. A full chamber cannot collect more fluid, risking system compromise and patient safety.

Choice B reason:

Pinning the tubing to the bed sheets is incorrect because it can cause kinks in the tubing, leading to obstruction of drainage and potential complications.

Choice C reason:

Monitoring for at least 150 mL of drainage every hour is not a standard practice. Normal chest tube drainage is variable; excessive drainage, such as 150 mL/hour, could indicate a serious condition like hemorrhage.

Choice D reason:

Clamping the tube routinely for 30 minutes every 8 hours is not recommended. Clamping may be done during tube removal or to check for air leaks but doing so routinely can lead to tension pneumothorax.

Choice A reason: Filling the pad with sterile water is not necessary, as tap water can be used for an aquathermia pad without increasing the risk of infection or contamination.

Choice B reason: Using safety pins to secure the pad in place is not appropriate, as they can puncture or damage the pad and cause leakage or electric shock.

Choice C reason: Applying the pad for 45 min at a time is not recommended, as it can cause skin burns or tissue damage due to prolonged exposure to heat. The nurse should apply the pad for no more than 20 min at a time and check the skin frequently for signs of redness or blistering.

Choice D reason: Covering the pad prior to use is an important action, as it can prevent direct contact between the pad and the skin and reduce the risk of burns or irritation. The nurse should use a towel or a cloth to cover the pad before applying it to the affected area.